]
Page. The Count of Varila, Madam, begs permission to speak with
you.
Eliz. With me? What's this new terror?
Tell him I wait him.
Isen [aside]. Ah! my old heart sinks--
God send us rescue! Here the champion comes.
[Count Walter enters.]
Wal. Most learned, fair, and sanctimonious Princess--
Plague, what comes next? I had something orthodox ready;
'Tis dropped out by the way.--Mass! here's the pith on't.--
Madam, I come a-wooing; and for one
Who is as only worthy of your love,
As you of his; he bids me claim the spousals
Made long ago between you,--and yet leaves
Your fancy free, to grant or pass that claim:
And being that Mercury is not my planet,
He hath advised himself to set herein,
With pen and ink, what seemed good to him,
As passport to this jewelled mirror, pledge
Unworthy of his worship. [Gives a letter and jewel.]
Isen. Nunc Domine dimittis servam tuam!
[Elizabeth looks over the letter and casket, claps her hands and
bursts into childish laughter.]
Why here's my Christmas tree come after Lent--
Espousals? pledges? by our childish love?
Pretty words for folks to think of at the wars,--
And pretty presents come of them! Look, Guta!
A crystal clear, and carven on the reverse
The blessed rood.
Pages:
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62